After giving Piggy the spotlight last week I feel it’s only fair to give Kermit equal airplay 🙂
A CONVERSATION WITH KERMIT THE FROG…
Why should audiences see Disney’s “The Muppets?”
It’s funny, upbeat and full of laughs for everyone… frogs, pigs, bears… even people.
For new fans, it’s a chance to see the Muppets in action on the big screen. And for old fans, it’s a chance to get together with old friends… and get a little crazy together.
What is Disney’s “The Muppets” about?
Well, it’s the story of this incredible Muppet fan named Walter who comes to Hollywood to meet us… and ends up having to get all the Muppets back together to put on a show and save Muppet Studios.
I guess it’s the first Muppet movie that’s really from the point of view of a fan. Jason Segel, who is a really big Muppet fan in real life, co-wrote the movie. He wanted to show what it would be like if the world’s biggest Muppet fan—along with his brother Gary (played by Jason) and friend Mary (played by Amy Adams)—came to Hollywood to meet us.
What is your role in Disney’s “The Muppets?”
I play me, Kermit the Frog. I’ve played other parts, like Bob Crachit in A Muppet Christmas Carol and Captain Smollett in Muppet Treasure Island, but I think “me” is my favorite part.
Playing a frog named Kermit might be type casting, but there aren’t a lot of great parts for amphibians, so I was happy to get the part.
In the movie—and in life, really—I’m a humble frog in Hollywood who wants to get back together with his friends and keep entertaining people.
How does your life differ from the characters you play in the films?
Well, on the big screen. I’m 16 feet tall. But in real life, it’s closer to 18 inches. So, I’d have to say the biggest difference is more height—and better lighting.
Seriously, though, my life on screen and off screen is about the same. In real life and on film, I’m surrounded by chaos, craziness, and romantic pigs—just like any other Hollywood star.
Why did you want to take part in this film?
I understand they considered other actors—George Clooney, Tom Hanks. But in the end, when it comes to playing short, green and amphibious, I’m still Hollywood’s go-to guy. According to director James Bobin, when I read for the role of “me,” I nailed it.
What is the funniest scene in the film?
I like the scene where everything goes crazy and no one knows what to do. It’s total mad chaos…..Hmm, come to think of it, that describes most of the movie.
I can’t pick JUST one scene—all the other scenes would get jealous. But I really do like the big finale. Lots of singing, dancing, laughing… and, I don’t want to spoil it, but it’s happy, too.
What is your advice for up-and-coming frogs/actors?
Never say croak.
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I can’t embed it, but the Muppets FB page has a pretty funny movie trailer up that spoofs The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Which I haven’t seen, so I don’t know how spoofy it is, but it’s entertaining all the same.
You know why? Because the Muppets rock the awesome.
Who’s got two thumbs and looking forward to the interview with Professor Honeydew and Beaker?
This guy.
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